Online Poker Payment Methods

In order to play online poker for real money, you'll need to be able to smoothly transfer funds into and out of your poker account. There are a multitude of deposit and cashout options in the online poker industry. In this section of the guide, we'll teach you about the most common poker payment methods, plus a step-by-step introduction to making deposits and withdrawals.

How to Make an Online Poker Deposit

In order to make an online poker deposit, you'll of course need to set up an account. This takes only a few moments to download and install the poker software, then register a username and password. Note that you must use your real, current personal info when registering in order for most deposits/withdrawals to be processed. Once your account is set up, follow these steps:

Step 1: Login to the online poker lobby.

Step 2: Click over to the cashier. This should be easy enough to find. Most poker rooms have a large, highly visible button labeled “Cashier”.

Step 3: Choose to make a deposit.

Step 4: Choose your preferred deposit method from the menu.

Step 5: Follow the instructions on the page, input your deposit amount and submit. You may also have to review and confirm the deposit after submitting.

How to Make an Online Poker Cashout

This process is much the same as depositing. However, your first withdrawal may require a few extra steps to verify your identity.

If online poker sites ask for identity verification, they will require the following:

1. Copy of a Valid Picture ID (Driver's License, Photo ID, Passport)

2. Copy of a Utility Bill (Electric bill, water bill, gas bill, etc.) This bill must contain your name and current address.

You can fax these documents to the online poker room via the Fax# provided. Was reviewed, you will be able to withdrawal in the following manner.

Step 1: Login to the poker lobby.

Step 2: Click over to the Cashier.

Step 3: Choose to request a withdrawal.

Step 4: Choose your preferred withdrawal method from the menu.

Step 5: Follow the instructions on the page, input the amount you wish to withdrawal and submit. Again, you may be asked to review and confirm the withdrawal amount.

Poker Payment Methods

These are the most common, secure poker payment methods, and how they work.

Credit / Debit Card: The most popular way to deposit into an online poker account is via Credit / Debit Card, such as Visa, MasterCard, Diners, AmEx, Discover, Maestro, Delta, Electron, etc. Credit Card deposits are safe, secure and instant. Withdrawing via Credit Card may or may not be an option. MasterCard does not generally allow withdrawals to your credit card, but most other companies do.

Online Payment Processors: There are many instant online payment processors that will allow both deposits and withdrawals through online poker room accounts. These include NETeller, Moneybookers, EcoCard, Click2Pay, UseMyWallet, PayPal and others. You can fund your account before transferring funds, or in most cases, link the payment processor directly to your bank account and have the funds withdrawn upon deposit. All deposits are instant.

Pre-Paid Cards: A lot of online poker rooms will accept pre-paid cards, such as gift cards and phone cards. You may purchase these cards at any in-store location, then use it just like a credit card to make an instant deposit. You cannot withdrawal via pre-paid cards.

Cash Transfer: Cash Transfers are facilitated by money wiring companies, such as Western Union and MoneyGram. Look for these logos at your online poker room to see if they are available. Many online poker rooms do not advertise cash transfer availability, but if you email the accounts department, they will give you the required info to make the transaction. For deposits, you can go to an agent location or use their online service to make a deposit. Then give the Transaction #, amount and date/time of transfer to the online poker room to complete the deposit. Few online poker rooms have cash transfer withdrawals, but those who do will offer complete instructions.

Bank Transfer: You can transfer deposits and withdrawals directly to/from your bank account. This take several business days to complete.

Bank Wire: Just like a bank transfer, but is nearly instant, and may cost a pretty penny. If withdrawing, make sure the withdrawal is large enough to be worth the cost.

E-Check: Instantly debit your bank account with an online check. This is available for deposits only. Choose Instant Check or E-Check from the deposit menu and follow the instructions.

Check/Bank Draft: As a deposit method, this can be rather slow, but very secure. As a withdrawal method, you could be waiting up to 4 weeks or more for your payment, but it is often the best option for US players to make their withdrawals. There's also the option of Check by Courier, which is much faster, but a lot more costly.

Find a list of poker rooms below, where you can make a deposit or withdraw using popular payment methods. Also, please, do not forget to read our poker reviews and compare poker signup bonuses that to choose the best poker room for you.